The Government announced today (December 24, 2001) the appointment of Mr Michael Tien Puk-sun as the Chairman of the Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation (KCRC) for two years with effect from December 24, 2001.

The Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation (Amendment) Ordinance, which also takes effect from today, strengthens the corporate governance of KCRC by separating the duties and functions of the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer.

Mr Tien has wide experience in the business sector and has extensive public service, particularly in the field of manpower training.

The Secretary for Transport, Mr Nicholas Ng, welcomed the appointment of Mr Tien as the Chairman of KCRC. "With his commitment to public service and his experience and knowledge of the service industry, Mr Tien is eminently qualified to lead KCRC," Mr Ng said. "His credentials in the business sector and wealth of experience in public service will be tremendous assets for KCRC."

"I have every confidence in his capable leadership and believe that the KCRC will move from strength to strength in taking on the challenges that lie ahead."